Seasonal Commercial Enterprise in Parks

2019 Applications being accepted now!

2019 Applications can be accepted at this time up until February 15th, 2019.

The purpose of Seasonal Commercial Enterprise in Parks is to enhance the enjoyment and usage of parks by providing opportunities through sport, recreation, and/or cultural events or opportunities. All while ensuring the support of creation, enhancement, or continuation of tourism opportunities, as well as providing a complimentary service to the park users’ experience.

A Seasonal Commercial Enterprise refers to any organization engaged in the sale of goods or services to consumers for a defined period of time. All Seasonal Commercial Enterprises must support sport, recreation, and/or cultural events or opportunities.

Why do I need a permit?

To address the increased volume of organized sport, recreation and cultural activities in city parks, an application process and guidelines have been established for individuals or groups who provide sport, recreation or cultural programming.

From May 1 to October 31, individuals or groups looking to operate an enterprise in a City park require a permit. A permit grants approval to conduct business in a designated park, but does not grant exclusive rights to a specific park or time. Public access to parks must be maintained at all times.

Note: Applications must be received by the 15 of February; should this date falls on a weekend or statutory holiday, the application package must be submitted on the previous business day.

Upon submission, the Seasonal Commercial Enterprise Adjudication Committee will review applications and recommend the City’s approval to issue a permit. Evaluation is based on the criteria outlined in the Seasonal Commercial Enterprise in Parks Policy.

Compatibility with the Policy Purpose and Objectives;

Compatibility with current park programming;

Integration of temporary structure into park setting;

Vendor’s Business Plan;

Vendor’s experience and qualifications;

Need for product or service; and

Uniqueness of proposal.

Applicants will be notified of how their application was adjudicated 30 days following the application deadline.

Successful applicants have until 15 of April to produce the following documents:

Note: The Seasonal Commercial Enterprise in Parks Permit applies only to operations in parks and does not regulate Seasonal Commercial Enterprises on private property, at special events, or festivals.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What dates and times can I operate?

The Seasonal Commercial Enterprise in Parks current operating season is May 1 to October 31.

The City does not regulate hours of operations, however, park usage is not permitted between 12 a.m. and 5 a.m.

How much does it cost to apply for a Seasonal Commercial Enterprise Permit?

To apply for a permit, there is no cost. However, if an applicant is successful, the permit fee to run a Seasonal Commercial Enterprise in a park is:

Type

Cost

Commercial permit fee

$1800

Not-for-profit permit fee

$600

Note: Payment is due in person, upon submission of approved application, copy of liability insurance, commercial business license (additional fees are required), motorized vehicle in park permit (if applicable) and building permit (if applicable).

Where are Seasonal Commercial Enterprise in Parks allowed to operate? Does the City assign designated locations?

The City does not assign designated locations within the park, you are responsible for submitting the proposed location for each year. The City has the right to approve or not approve any proposed locations based on programming compatibility.

Note: Your business is expected to operate in the approved location for the duration of the operating season.

What is someone is at my site when I arrive, what should I do?

Permit holders have the right to operate in approved location (permit must be present on-site). City of Saskatoon activities/programs and approved special events take precedence over Seasonal Commercial Enterprise. If such an event is in progress or booked on the space, the Seasonal Commercial Enterprise must move to an approved alternate location, or work with the event organizer to co-exist in the park space.

Are there any regulations with signage or furniture?

Yes. Temporary signs must be placed directly on or against the Seasonal Commercial Enterprise to avoid any obstruction. One sign is permitted per Seasonal Commercial Enterprise. All signs must comply with the Temporary Sign Bylaw #7491.

Yes, you are allowed to build a structure to operate and/or store equipment for your Seasonal Commercial Enterprise in a Park. All temporary structures must be approved prior to construction. If a structure is over 10m2 (107 square feet) in size a Temporary Building Permit is required.

All questions regarding Building Permits should be directed to the Building Standards Division at (306) 975-2645.

Are Seasonal Commercial Enterprise responsible for their garbage and recycling?

Yes. Proper trash and recycling receptacles for customers and staff need to be provided. You are required to ensure that the space within a 6.0 metre radius of their operation is clean and litter free.

Is the City responsible for providing the Seasonal Commercial Enterprise with power and water sources?

No. The Seasonal Commercial Enterprise must supply its own power and water sources, if required. Generators are permitted providing that they do not cause a disturbance and operate within hours stipulated under the Noise Bylaw #8244.

Can I sell food or drinks?

No, the sale of food or drinks is not permitted. In the Downtown area, several food and drink opportunities currently exist, either within or adjacent to the parks; these include on-street mobile food trucks, food carts, and licensed concessions.